The Gunners threw away their grip on a top-four berth with a terrible end to the campaign, collecting seven points in the last seven games.
The north London club could still be thrown a lifeline, though, and still make it into next season’s premier club competition despite losing 4-1 to Chelsea in Baku.
Premier League winners Manchester City are currently under investigation from Uefa regarding alleged Financial Fair Play breaches.
Pep Guardiola’s side could, therefore, lose their spot in next year’s competition dependent on when the investigation is resolved.
If that happens, Arsenal will take their spot because they were the next best side in the Premier League, missing out on top four by one point.
Arsenal may qualify for Champions League even if they LOSE to Chelsea due to UEFA ruling (Image: Getty)
Man City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak believes Man City will be exonerated (Image: Getty)
I believe, quite comfortably, if the process is going to be judged on facts then unquestionably we will prevail.
Khaldoon Al Mubarak
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Given the complexity of the case, it is more likely a ban would be imposed for the 2020/21 season.
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak recently expressed his confidence about the investigation, telling club media: "Am I uncomfortable? No. I respect regulatory bodies doing their job and any regulatory process that asks questions.
"We have to professionally respond which is what we have done. We are dealing with each of these entities as per the process, we have clear answers.
"I believe, quite comfortably, if the process is going to be judged on facts then unquestionably we will prevail. If it's not about facts and it's about other things, then it is a different conversation."
Arsenal’s showdown with Chelsea was their first European final since losing 2-1 to Barcelona in the 2006 Champions League curtain-closer.
But even as a three-time winner Unai Emery could not guide them to continental glory as Arsenal were battered by their London rivals.
Four goals in 25 minutes saw the Gunners thoroughly beaten in Azerbaijan, with Alex Iwobi's goal only a consolation as Eden Hazard did the damage with a brace.
Arsenal, as a result, will be back in the Europa League next season unless Uefa find City guilty of rule breaches and decide on an immediate punishment.
Arsenal boss Unai Emery has won the Europa League three times before (Image: Getty)
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